Description of castle complex Český Krumlov

The Český Krumlov Castle and Chateau is the second largest castle complex in the country. Its size and architectural level, reflecting architectural styles from the 14th to the 19th century, make it one of the most important architectural monuments in the world.

It consists of over 40 buildings built over the centuries on a narrow and oblong rocky promontory above the left bank of the Vltava River. The nucleus of the castle complex began with the tower and its adjacent Hrádek, or Little Castle. The other buildings and palaces are grouped around five courtyards all closed in on the southwest by the 11-hectare castle garden, founded in the 1670‘s.

The castle grounds are open all year round, guided tours of the castle interiors are available during the season, and you can visit the Lapidarium, the Castle Museum and climb to the castle tower. The Castle Museum and tower are open throughout the year.

During “unorganized” walks throughout the castle courtyards you can admire the bears in the castle moat, the dominating tower over the moat, or the impressive Renaissance fresco decorations on the facades in the 3rd and 4th courtyards. The impressive view from the high Cloak Bridge overlooks the houses of the historical town center and the steeple of the St. Vitus Church. Also well worth a visit in the castle are two galleries, the Gallery of Czech Culture on the 2nd courtyard and the International Gallery of Ceramic Design in the Václav Cellars.

During the season from April to October, the chateau garden is open with its Rococo Cascading Fountain and castle pond. The garden area includes the elegant Bellarie Summer House as well as the famous revolving auditorium.